Priority AreasWater quality data was used to identify priority areas and geographic analysis was used to identify which best management practices (BMPs) might be most effective at reducing nonpoint source pollution in these areas. Public input was also considered.

Selection Process

Subwatersheds with the most polluted surface water were selected as priority areas. The following pollutants were analyzed: nitrate, phosphorus, TSS (e.g. sediment), and E. coli. Each HUC 12 tributary subwatershed was ranked for each pollutant. The five tributary subwatersheds with the highest concentrations of each pollutant were selected as priority areas. Although HUC 12 mainstem subwatersheds (i.e. subwatersheds through which the Mississinewa River passes) were not considered for priority areas (since pollutants might have entered the water in an upstream subwatershed), these areas are still eligible for cost-share funding (from sources other than 319 grant).

Cost-share for BMPs

BMPs that will be funded in each priority area were selected through the consideration of suspected sources of non-point source pollution, which were identified through the watershed analysis process and water quality data. For example, two stage ditches will be funded only in certain priority areas because water quality data indicated that streambank erosion is a source in these priority areas.

Not in a Priority Area?

If you voiced a concern at a public meeting or through a survey during the WMP planning process, and the concern is not within one of the priority areas, you are still eligible for consideration for cost-share funding (through a source other than 319 funds) and are encouraged to apply.

FIG 1 | Water quality results were used in the selection of priority areas. The map above shows the priority areas for nitrate, phosphorus, E. coli, TSS, and biology and habitat.

Priority SourcesLand use data and water quality data were analyzed to identify sources of non point pollution throughout the watershed. This data was also used to prioritize each source. For example, data indicated that in subwatersheds with the highest TSS levels, the main source of the TSS was stream banks, as indicated in the table to the right.